Milwaukee County leaders travel to Madison to discuss size of county board

Many Milwaukee area lawmakers rallied in Madison on Wednesday against a bill that would reduce the role of the Milwaukee County board.

"Assembly Bill 85's attack on local control does more to polarize Milwaukee County than reform it," Democratic state Rep. Sandy Pasch said.

Local community leaders, who see the plan to trim the board to part-time as a power grab, also spoke out.

"We're going to oppose this, not only today, but tomorrow and from now on," said the Rev. Willie Brisco of Milwaukee Inner City Congregations Allied for Hope.

But supporters of the downsizing plan were also on hand, including County Executive Chris Abele.

"This bill is just about the state resetting to what was intended by the state in the first place. It's not a personal issue. It's about us delivering for taxpayers and being able to do it," Abele said.

Opponents argued the measure would limit local control of government, but the bill's sponsor contends it does just the opposite.

"Well, this bill actually enhances local control because for the first time, voters are going to have a countywide referendum to vote," Republican state Rep. Joe Sanfellipo said.

The debate grew heated at one point between the committee chairman and Democratic Madison state Rep. Brett Hulsey, who questioned whether Sanfellipo would agree to reduce his own salary.

Opponents had hoped this hearing would take place in Milwaukee, rather than in Madison, but they said the large turnout is an indication that there is an appetite for change. The question now is what that change will look like and who gets to make it.

Gov. Scott Walker, who previously served as Milwaukee county executive, issued a statement supporting the bill to overhaul the county board.

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) said Sunday it was "very alarmed" by reports of widespread doping by track and field athletes in major competitions including the Olympic Games and world championships.